Date: September 15, 2021
From time to time, it is necessary for us to remind ourselves that the work of formation is a holistic work. It is a work that impacts all our lives. Along with class (academics), chapel (worship), and lunch (table fellowship), the work of formation includes “how much we drink,” “how much we eat,” and “how much we exercise.”
It is interesting that the Church Pension Group noted that growing churches are often run by clergy that have good eating, drinking, and exercise habits. So, on a practical level, these good habits matter – we want strong congregations. But on a theological level, care of the temple of one’s body is core to self-love and self-love is part of the two great commandments.
As we ease into the semester, do monitor the occasions on which you drink alcohol or eat a dessert or decide not to go for a walk or a run. And use this space in your life to think through “good habits.” Habits that you can learn now in Seminary and have with you for the rest of your ministry.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President